VBAC After C-Section: What You Need to Know

Question
I had my son 4.5 weeks early.  My water broke at work and when I went to the Drs office I found out he was breech and they had to do an emergency c-section (for that reason only).  They could not tell why I went into labor so early.  I just found out that I am expecting again and want very much to try for a VBAC.  I have read that they only recommend VBAC if it has been over 2 years since last c-section (my son will be 20 months when this baby is born).  I am a healthy, nonsmoking 27 yr old.  Is there any reason I could not try VBAC?  

Also I am thinking about changing practioners - my old midwife left the office I was using and she recommended another office.  I have not had my first appointment yet.  Should I change now- before my first visit or should I wait or not change at all since my old Dr's office has all my past pregnancy records?  Will I be able to use a midwife?  I've heard because of possible uterine rupture they may not allow me to use a midwife anyway - and I do like the doctors at the old office.

Thank you for your reply!
Shawna  

Answer
Hello Shawna. Do not stay with an office because your records are there. Your delivery is more important than the convenience of paper work. I suggest you seek out several local midwives and interview them. Ask them ALL the hard questions and pick the one with whom you feel the most comfortable. IF you truly WANT a VBAC, don't use a dr- you will get a section for sure. You MUST read the following two books for the BEST chance of a VBAC. Open Season and The Silent Knife- both by Nancy Wainer Cohen- THE  American expert on VBACs- in fact SHE coined the term VBAC. You might also get a lot out of Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin and a website called BirthLove. All the best- Cheri.